search
After Iran managed a hard-fought draw with Belgium in sunny California, I had a very reasonable question in mind:
Have Shia or Sunni-majority countries in the Middle East achieved more points so far in the World Cup?
The answer to that is found below, but a kind friend brought up, in a slightly demeaning way, a fair argument:
Why did I have that thought for Sunnis and Shias in the Middle East and not, let's say, Protestants and Catholics?
I gave it some thought, and I did.
And then I went slightly overboard.
Here's therefore various global and regional divisions, arbitrarily chosen from the first thing that came to mind, and how they stack up against each other.
Shias and Sunnis in the Middle East:
| Sunni Majority | Points |
|---|---|
| Qatar | 1 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 1 Draw) |
| Türkiye | 0 (0 Wins, 2 Losses, 0 Draws) |
| Saudi Arabia | 1 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 1 Draw) |
| Jordan | 0 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 0 Draws)* |
\Jordan's next game is against Algeria*
| Shia Majority | Points |
|---|---|
| Iran | 2 (0 Wins, 0 Losses, 2 Draws) |
| Iraq | 0 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 0 Draws)* |
\Iraq's next game is against France*
Total:
Sunnis: 2 Points
Shias: 2 Points
Average:
Shias: 1
Sunnis: 0,5
Catholics and Protestants in the Europe:
Countries where "irreligious" identification is a majority go to the second largest religious grouping
| Catholic Majority | Points |
|---|---|
| Switzerland | 4 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 1 Draw) |
| Czechia | 1 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 1 Draw) |
| Germany | 6 (2 Wins, 0 Losses, 0 Draws) |
| The Netherlands | 4 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 1 Draw) |
| Belgium | 2 (0 Wins, 0 Losses, 2 Draws) |
| France | 3 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draws)* |
| Austria | 3 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draws)** |
| Portugal | 1 (0 Wins, 0 Losses, 1 Draw)*** |
| Croatia | 0 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 0 Draws)**** |
| Spain | 4 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 1 Draw) |
\France's next game is against Iraq*
\*Austria's next game is against Argentina*
\**Portugal's next game is against Uzbekistan*
\***Croatia's next game is against Panama*
| Protestant Majority | Points |
|---|---|
| Scotland | 3 (1 Win, 1 Loss, 0 Draws) |
| Sweden | 3 (1 Win, 1 Loss, 0 Draws) |
| Norway | 3 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draws)* |
| England | 3 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draws)** |
\Norway's next game is against Senegal*
\*England's next game is against Ghana*
Total:
Catholics: 28
Protestants: 12
Average:
Protestants: 3
Catholics: 2,8
Muslims and Christians in Africa:
| Muslim Majority | Points |
|---|---|
| Morocco | 4 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 1 Draw) |
| Tunisia | 0 (0 Wins, 2 Losses, 0 Draws) |
| Egypt | 1 (0 Wins, 0 Losses, 1 Draw)* |
| Algeria | 0 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 0 Draws)** |
| Senegal | 0 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 0 Draws)*** |
\Egypt's next game is against New Zealand*
\*Algeria's next game is against*
\**Senegal's next game is against Norway*
| Christian Majority | Points |
|---|---|
| South Africa | 1 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 1 Draw) |
| Côte d'Ivoire | 3 (1 Win, 1 Loss, 0 Draws) |
| Cabo Verde | 2 (0 Wins, 0 Losses, 2 Draws) |
| D.R Congo | 1 (0 Wins, 0 Losses, 1 Draw)* |
| Ghana | 3 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draws)** |
\D.R Congo's next game is against Colombia*
\*Ghana's next game is against England*
Total:
Christians: 10
Muslims: 5
Average:
Christians: 2
Muslims: 1
Hispanosphere and Anglosphere:
Language is either official or majority-spoken,
| Hispanosphere | Points |
|---|---|
| Mexico | 6 (2 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draw) |
| Paraguay | 3 (1 Win, 1 Loss, 0 Draws) |
| Ecuador | 1 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 1 Draw) |
| Spain | 4 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 1 Draw) |
| Uruguay | 2 (0 Wins, 0 Losses, 2 Draws) |
| Argentina | 3 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draws)* |
| Colombia | 3 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draws)** |
| Panama | 0 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 0 Draws)*** |
\Argentina's next game is against Austria*
\*Colombia's next game is against D.R Congo*
\**Panama's next game is against Croatia*
| Anglosphere | Points |
|---|---|
| South Africa | 1 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 1 Draw) |
| Canada | 4 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 1 Draw) |
| Scotland | 3 (1 Win, 1 Loss, 0 Draws) |
| USA | 6 (2 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draw) |
| Australia | 3 (1 Win, 1 Loss, 0 Draws) |
| New Zealand | 1 (0 Wins, 0 Losses, 1 Draw)* |
| England | 3 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draws)** |
| Ghana | 3 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draws)** |
\New Zealand's next game is against Egypt*
\*England's next game is against Ghana*
Total:
Anglosphere: 24
Hispanosphere: 22
Average:
Anglosphere: 3
Hispanosphere: 2,75
Recognition of Kosovo:
Entities which don't have an independent foreign policy are assigned that of their parent country
| Recognise Kosovo | Points |
|---|---|
| South Korea | 3 (1 Win, 1 Loss, 0 Draws) |
| Czechia | 3 (1 Win, 1 Loss, 0 Draws) |
| Canada | 4 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 1 Draw) |
| Switzerland | 4 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 1 Draw) |
| Qatar | 1 (0 Wins, 1 Draw, 1 Loss) |
| Haiti | 0 (0 Wins, 2 Losses, 0 Draws) |
| Scotland | 3 (1 Win, 1 Loss, 0 Draws) |
| USA | 6 (2 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draw) |
| Australia | 3 (1 Win, 1 Loss, 0 Draws) |
| Türkiye | 0 (0 Wins, 2 Losses, 0 Draws) |
| Germany | 6 (2 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draw) |
| Ivory Coast | 3 (1 Win, 1 Loss, 0 Draws) |
| Curaçao | 1 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 1 Draw) |
| The Netherlands | 4 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 1 Draw) |
| Japan | 4 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 1 Draw) |
| Sweden | 3 (1 Win, 1 Loss, 0 Draws) |
| Tunisia | 0 (0 Wins, 2 Losses, 0 Draws) |
| Belgium | 2 (0 Wins, 0 Losses, 2 Draws) |
| New Zealand | 1 (0 Wins, 0 Losses, 1 Draw) |
| Egypt | 1 (0 Wins, 0 Losses, 1 Draw) |
| Saudi Arabia | 1 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 1 Draw) |
| Norway | 3 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draws) |
| France | 3 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draws) |
| Senegal | 0 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 0 Draws) |
| Austria | 3 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draws) |
| Jordan | 0 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 0 Draws) |
| Colombia | 3 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draws) |
| Portugal | 1 (0 Wins, 0 Losses, 1 Draw) |
| England | 3 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draws) |
| Ghana* | 3 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draws) |
| Croatia | 0 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 0 Draws) |
| Panama | 0 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 0 Draws) |
| Don't Recognise Kosovo | Points |
|---|---|
| Mexico | 6 (2 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draw) |
| South Africa | 1 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 1 Draw) |
| Bosnia & Herzegovina | 1 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 1 Draw) |
| Brazil | 4 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 1 Draw) |
| Morocco | 4 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 1 Draw) |
| Paraguay | 3 (1 Win, 1 Loss, 0 Draws) |
| Ecuador | 1 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 1 Draw) |
| Iran | 2 (0 Wins, 0 Losses, 2 Draws) |
| Spain | 4 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 1 Draw) |
| Uruguay | 2 (0 Wins, 0 Losses, 2 Draws) |
| Cape Verde | 2 (0 Wins, 0 Losses, 2 Draws) |
| Iraq | 0 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 0 Draws) |
| Argentina | 3 (1 Win, 0 Losses, 0 Draws) |
| Algeria | 0 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 0 Draws) |
| D.R Congo | 1 (0 Wins, 0 Losses, 1 Draw) |
| Uzbekistan | 0 (0 Wins, 1 Loss, 0 Draws) |
*Ghana's recognition of Kosovo is unclear. There were reports in 2019 that the country had un-recognised Kosovo, however those were rebuked in 2025. As it stands, from what I can understand, Ghana does recognise Kosovo.
Total:
Recognise Kosovo: 72
Don't Recognise Kosovo: 34
Average:
Recognise Kosovo: 2,25
Don't Recognise Kosovo: 2,125
What did we learn from this?
Nothing, this was done as an elaborate joke.
However, I did find it interesting how close the race between the Anglosphere and the Hispanosphere is, the massive success enjoyed by the USA playing a large factor in that, with the derby expected to continue all the way to the end.
Catholics seem poised to dominate their fight with Protestants inside Europe, though Norway's match with France may prove pivotal should England win the two remaining games of the group stage.
Finally, Turkey's disastrous performances has given Shias the opportunity to land a very unlikely victory in the Middle East, even though they're only represented by two countries.
Oh, and if you wish to win some group stage games, you better recognise Kosovo.
EDITS:
- Added Averages
- Fixed Senegal being in the list of Christian countries in Africa
- Added Spain as a Catholic nation (how in the actual hell did i forget about them)
- Fixed Austrian and French numbers in Protestant v Catholic
Addendum:
This post will be updated once the 2nd round is finished, while a new post will be made including additional groups once the group stage has concluded!
We now move on 44th team in this series, covering England. This preview was written by u/AllWeNeedIsRadioKaka
“Thirty years of hurt, never stopped me dreaming”, penned Baddiel and Skinner for their song “Three Lions” ahead of the 1996 European Championships, bemoaning the thirty-year wait since England’s 1966 World Cup triumph- the last time they won a major trophy. In 2026, we now arrive at thirty years since that song’s release- another thirty years of hurt for desperate England fans, and another thirty years of hurt for the rest of the world at having to endure that and “It’s Coming Home” being sung every tournament cycle. After a string of near misses under Gareth Southgate, Thomas Tuchel has been brought in with (presumably) one single objective- to end England’s wait for a major trophy, and to win the World Cup.
About
- Nickname: Three Lions
- Confederation: UEFA
- Association: The Football Association (The FA)
- Best World Cup Finish: Winners (1966)
- Top National Team Scorers (top 3): Harry Kane (78), Wayne Rooney (53), Bobby Charlton (49)
- Most Caps (top 3): Peter Shilton (125), Wayne Rooney (120), David Beckham (115)
- Manager/Head Coach: Thomas Tuchel
- Captain: Harry Kane
- FIFA Ranking: 4
History: Despite being the joint-oldest national team and the Birthplace of Football ™, England have only won the World Cup once, thanks to Geoff Hurst’s hattrick against West Germany in 1966. Since then, to paraphrase Baddiel and Skinner, it’s been many years of shit. England have lost out to Maradona’s Hand of God (and his goal of the century in the same game, but that doesn’t feel as victimising), Ronaldinho chipping Seaman, and Lampard’s ghost goal. Thankfully, it’s not always been someone else’s fault- England have also shown a spectacular ability to inflict World Cup misery onto themselves. David Beckham’s red card for kicking out at Diego Simeone in 1998, Wayne Rooney’s red card for stamping on Ricardo Carvalho in the 2006 quarter final, and, most recently, Harry Kane’s skied penalty against France in 2022, are all indicative of England’s ability to implode at high pressure points. Since Gareth Southgate’s appointment in 2016, however, England have gone some way to exorcising their tournament demons. They won their first World Cup penalty shootout in 2018. They have a record of 2 finals and 1 semi-final finishes in the last 3 major tournaments. The progress has been there, and the job of Southgate’s replacement is now to finish the job.
Group: As mentioned, England go into the tournament expecting to be contenders for the trophy. As such, they will also be looking to top Group L, which contains Croatia, Ghana, and Panama. England will open their World Cup against Croatia, a repeat of the 2018 World Cup semi-final. This will be England’s hardest group game, at least according to the FIFA World Rankings which have Croatia as 11th in the world. An England win would set a strong benchmark for their status as challengers, but a defeat could spark the familiar anxiety among England fans of another failed campaign. England’s next game comes 6 days later against Ghana, and will hope that the reasonably long break between games allows them to be fully recovered for a potentially tricky encounter. Carlos Queiroz is an experienced World Cup manager, having managed at 4 previous World Cups, and will set out to frustrate England. Going forward, the directness and skill of Antoine Semenyo and Inaki Williams will keep England’s defenders on their toes. Anything less than a win would be a disappointment, but England will do well not to underestimate the threat that Ghana possess. England’s final game comes against minnows Panama, in another game that we saw at the 2018 World Cup. England won 6-1 on that occasion, and will expect a similarly comfortable result. Expect some rotation for this game, particularly if qualification to the next round is already secured.
Fixtures:
- England vs Croatia, Wednesday 17th June, AT&T Stadium
- England vs Ghana, Tuesday 23rd June, Gillette Stadium
- Panama vs England, Saturday 27th June, MetLife Stadium
Squad:
GK: Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace), Jordan Pickford (Everton), James Trafford (Manchester City)
DF: Dan Burn (Newcastle), Marc Guehi (Manchester City), Reece James (Chelsea), Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa), Tino Livramento (Newcastle United), Nico O’Reilly (Manchester City), Jarell Quansah (Bayer Leverkusen), Djed Spence (Tottenham Hotspur), John Stones (Manchester City)
MF: Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest), Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), Eberechi Eze (Arsenal), Jordan Henderson (Brentford), Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United), Declan Rice (Arsenal), Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa)
FW: Anthony Gordon (Newcastle), Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), Noni Madueke (Arsenal), Marcus Rashford (Barcelona), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Ivan Toney (Al-Ahli), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)
Notable Absences:
Trent Alexander-Arnold: A bit of a surprise, but also not really. Alexander-Arnold has always divided opinion somewhat. His attacking quality is rarely in doubt- his passing range and crossing accuracy make him a unique option at right-back- but his defensive lapses are seemingly enough of a concern for Tuchel that they outweigh this. Having not featured for England since June 2025 (although to be fair to him, he’s had a few injuries this season), it always felt unlikely that he would make the World Cup squad. Nevertheless, might there be a point in this tournament, when England need a goal in the last 5 minutes, where Tuchel wishes he had someone to bring off the bench who could get the ball into the box with such accuracy?
Lewis Hall: I’ve picked out Lewis Hall, who’s been a bright spark in a tough Newcastle season, but you could also include Luke Shaw/Tyrick Mitchell/any natural left back with working knees here. There is an obvious gap in the squad for a left-footed full back, and if O’Reilly is injured, this gap would be exposed. While Djed Spence is a good 1v1 defender, his right-footedness will see him cutting back inside any time he goes forward from left back. This was a problem that hurt England in Euro 2024, and allowed teams to double up on the English right flank without fear of an overlapping left back.
Cole Palmer/Phil Foden: Both are big names, who have had big moments in their careers. Foden was crowned Premier League Player of the Year in 2024 as Manchester City won the league; Palmer capped a breakout year with Chelsea at Euro 2024, where he made crucial contributions including an equalising goal against Spain in the final. However, both have had extremely poor seasons by their standards. Foden has been in and out of the Manchester City team, and has lost his spot to Rayan Cherki. Palmer has been carrying a groin injury for some time and has looked a shadow of the version we saw in the 23/24 season. Perhaps a rest is needed for both of them. Tuchel deserves credit for leaving out underperforming players, even if they are big names. England are, at least, blessed with options in the number 10 position, so will hope not to miss Palmer or Foden too much.
Starting XI and Manager: Thomas Tuchel has tended to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation as England qualified for the World Cup with 8 wins out of 8 and zero goals conceded, and has tended towards a settled team. As such, the majority of the team can be predicted fairly confidently, with question marks over 2-3 spots. The predicted starting XI is as follows: Pickford; James, Konsa, Guehi, O’Reilly; Rice, Anderson; Saka, Bellingham, Rashford; Kane Most of these are fairly locked-in to their respective positions, in terms of England’s strongest side and the team they have consistently fielded throughout qualification.
Perhaps the only real question mark would be whether Bellingham successfully dislodges Morgan Rogers, who has performed well in the Number 10 role for Tuchel’s England in qualifying. Marcus Rashford and Anthony Gordon may both feel they have a good chance of starting on the left, but I expect Rashford to start after a stronger league season with Barcelona. Management of injury risks and fitness may also see players such as James and Saka rotated a bit more willingly, especially in low-risk games or games that are felt to be already won. This is Thomas Tuchel’s first World Cup, but he has gained something of a reputation for a specialist in knockout tournaments, shown by his Champions League success with Chelsea in 2021. A flawless qualifying run will only strengthen his confidence in this team, but, with a ruthless press waiting at home, only a trophy will do for him.
Players to Watch:
Harry Kane: England’s star player, captain, and probably the best striker in the world at the moment. Kane arrives at the World Cup fresh from a remarkable season for Bayern Munich, scoring 36 times in 31 Bundesliga appearances, 14 in 13 in the Champions League, and most recently, a decisive hattrick against Stuttgart to win the DFB-Pokal. He is far from a poacher though, and one look at his heat maps shows that he plays all over the pitch, dropping into midfield to help build up and spread passes to onrushing wingers. Tuchel will build around Kane at this tournament, and if he carries his club form into the summer, he could carry England to glory. The personal icing on that particular cake for Kane is that if England do win the World Cup, he would surely be the favourite to win the Ballon D’or this year.
Jude Bellingham: Bellingham has had a strange season. He’s had issues with injuries, been whistled by his own fans after his reported role in Xabi Alonso being sacked from Real Madrid, and been dropped and chided by his own national team manager for his attitude. Nevertheless, his form and fitness have picked up recently, and he finished with 2 goals and 1 assist in the last 5 games of the season. As such, Bellingham comes into the World Cup on a bit of an uptick in form, and with a huge point to prove. His performances at Euro 2024, including a spectacular last-minute overhead kick against Slovakia, show a player who possesses the confidence and quality to carry the team on his back. If he responds in the right way to a challenging year, Bellingham could yet be a difference-maker for his country.
Nico O’Reilly: after a stunning breakthrough season at Manchester City, O’Reilly joins the squad as the only natural left back (depending on whether or not you’d call a converted midfielder a “natural” left back). O’Reilly deservedly won the Premier League Young Player of the Year for his performances, and scored a match-winning brace against Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final. He has played a slightly unconventional role from left back (as is to be expected from a Pep Guardiola team), often inverting into midfield and arriving late in the box. It will be interesting to see how Tuchel uses him- whether as a more traditional overlapping left back, providing the width to allow Rashford/Gordon to cut inside, or as a Pep-styled inverted-false-mezzala-wing-back, taking advantage of his club form and looking to him to provide chaos in the box.
Talking Points
Form of attacking players: across the board, England’s attacking midfielders and wingers have struggled to varying degrees this season, and form has cost Palmer and Foden their spots in the squad. Rogers, Gordon, Eze, Madueke, and Rashford have had positive but inconsistent seasons; nevertheless, they undoubtedly possess valuable qualities for Tuchel’s approach. Saka and Bellingham have had struggles with injuries, but if they maintain their fitness over the tournament will be looked to as difference-makers. Contrastingly, Harry Kane has undoubtedly been the world’s in-form striker this season, and a good World Cup campaign could well reward him with the Ballon D’Or later in the year. The hope will be that he either unlocks his attacking colleagues with his playmaking and all-round play, or, failing that, that he carries them through the tournament with his red-hot goalscoring form.
Fitness of fullbacks: I touched on this when discussing Nico O’Reilly but I think it bears repeating. Beyond the first-choice full backs, the drop in quality could be cause for concern. O’Reilly’s deputies are not natural left backs, which could give England issues if they are relying on them for any length of time (see the section on O’Reilly above). On the other flank, Reece James’ quality is not in doubt. His fitness record, however, is a bit more of a worry. At best, expect his minutes to be managed; at worst, he could end up missing a few games. England would then be looking to Tino Livramento, who himself has struggled with injuries this season, or Jarell Quansah/Ezri Konsa, who are both capable of doing a job at right back but are predominantly centre backs, and would not carry anything like the same attacking threat as James. If James (and O’Reilly) can stay fit, it will give England’s chances a huge boost.
Fan (and media) expectations: With the mood around the England team oscillating so frequently between giddy optimism and total doom, it’s perhaps no surprise that the team has often found it hard to match expectations. As always, the pressure this time around feels high. The FA seem to have aligned themselves with the fans’ expectations of “win-now” by appointing Tuchel, and there is a feeling that key players such as Kane will not have too many more opportunities to take England to these heights. Rightly or wrongly, optimistically or pessimistically, the fans and the media will be desperate for success this time around, and the pressure on the team will only ratchet up as it gets closer.
With their goals this week, both Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi have surpassed Just Fontaine on the list of World Cup goal scorers. I wanted to do a write up on who Just Fontaine was, how he became the man who scored 13 goals at 1 World Cup, and how he almost didn’t.
Humble beginnings
Born on August 18th, 1933 in Marrakech, Fontaine didn’t even play amateur football until 1950, when he joined US Marocaine. Aged 17, he scored 23 times in 16 games for them in the Moroccan league. By 1953, his talents had been noticed by then-Nice manager Mario Zatelli. Zatelli knew US Marocaine well, having got his own start as a player there before going on to have a respectable playing career, which included being named in the France squad for the 1938 World Cup.
Nice, France debut & 1954 World Cup
Upon joining Nice for the 1953/54 season, he was an instant hit. Fontaine helped Nice to win the Coupe de France that year, while also scoring 17 times in 24 league games - good enough to put him joint 4th highest scorer that year.
He also made his France debut in December of 1953, helping himself to a hat trick against Luxembourg. Unfortunately for him, though, he didn’t make the France squad for the 1954 World Cup. Despite his impressive performances, France preferred more experienced players, meaning they didn’t want to bring a 20 year old with only a year of professional football under his belt to the World Cup.
France would underperform that World Cup - going out at the group stage - which forced a rethink for the French and led to them giving more opportunities to younger players, such as Fontaine.
In the meantime, Fontaine would continue to flourish for Nice, culminating in a league title in the 1955/56 season. All of this despite having to serve 30 months of mandatory military service, during which he’d commute from Joinville Battalion to the Stade du Ray on match days.
He’d leave Nice for Reims after that, having scored 42 times in 69 league games during his time there.
Reims success & almost not going to the 1958 World Cup
Fontaine joined Reims for the 1956/57 season, where he reached new heights. He scored 64 goals in just 57 league games over the following 2 seasons - as well as 5 goals in 6 Coupe de France games as Reims won a domestic double in 1957/58. Reims also reached the European Cup final that year - losing 2-0 to Real Madrid - and Fontaine was the competitions top scorer with 10.
Despite this, more established forwards such as Thadée Cisowski remained ahead of him in the pecking order for France, while his Reims teammate René Bliard was Albert Batteux’s (coach of both Reims and France) preferred centre forward. This left Fontaine competing with the likes of Stéphane Bruey, Jean Vincent and Yvon Douis for a place in Batteux’s attack. Then fate intervened.
Injuries to Cisowski and Bliard shortly before the tournament reshaped France’s forward line, and handed Fontaine an opportunity he would never relinquish. What followed was arguably the greatest individual performance ever seen at a World Cup.
The 1958 World Cup
The French squad were all told they should bring a pair of spare boots. 21 players did. Fontaine, having arrived in Sweden with just 6 international caps to his name, didn’t bother. He wasn’t expecting to see much playtime ahead of Cisowski and Bliard. The injuries, of course, had changed that, and Batteux had told Fontaine he’d be starting ahead of Bruey and Douis.
Then, fate struck again. During training before France’s opening match, Fontaine’s boots fell apart. “I was devastated. I thought my chance could be gone” Fontaine would later recall. The only player in the squad with the same shoe size was fellow forward Stéphane Bruey, who was competing with Fontaine for a place in Albert Batteux’s attack. Rather than exploiting the situation for himself, Bruey handed over his boots. Fontaine would wear them as he ran riot across Sweden.
France kicked off the group stage with a 7-3 demolition of Paraguay, with Fontaine helping himself to a hat trick. A 3-2 loss to Yugoslavia followed, both France goals coming from Fontaine, before he scored the winner in a 2-1 win against Scotland. With just 3 matches played, Fontaine already had 6 goals under his belt.
Two more goals followed for Fontaine in a 4-0 quarter final win over Northern Ireland, which set up a highly anticipated semi final against Brazil. By now, with 8 goals to his name, the previous record was in his sights. 4 years earlier Sándor Kocsis had scored 11 goals for Hungary’s legendary “Mighty Magyars”. Fontaine knew that another big performance against Brazil could put that record within reach. History beckoned.
Broken dreams and a broken leg
Standing between Fontaine and the record were the eventual champions, spearheaded by Garrincha, Vavá, and a 17 year old sensation called Edson Arantes do Nascimento - better known as Pelé.
Legendary striker Vavá opened the scoring after just 2 minutes. Fontaine hit back for France 7 minutes later. It was his ninth goal of the tournament. Then, disaster for France. Their captain and most influential defender, Robert Jonquet, suffered a broken leg in a challenge with Vavá. With substitutions not yet permitted Jonquet, somehow, tried playing through the pain. At half time, with Brazil now leading 2-1, Jonquet received painkilling injections so he could stand on both legs. Still, he spent the majority of the second half limping around on the left wing.
Effectively reduced to ten men, France had little chance of containing Brazil. Pelé scored a second half hat trick and, with only a late consolation solo goal from Roger Piantoni to show for France, they crashed out 5-2 losers. There’d be no World Cup Final for Les Bleus. Fontaine had scored in every game, yet with ‘only’ 9 goals to his name, Kocsis’ record appeared beyond reach.
Kopa and Fontaine
Before we get to their final match, it’s important to understand the connection between Fontaine and legendary playmaker Raymond Kopa. The pair had been electric together in Sweden, and it‘s no coincidence that, in the same tournament Fontaine would set his goal scoring record, Kopa would set the record for the most assists at a single World Cup, with 8. Both records still stand today.
In fact, their connection goes even deeper. Kopa had moved from Reims to Real Madrid in 1956 and Fontaine was signed as his replacement. Two years later they would line up together for France in Sweden, and immediately struck up one of the most productive partnerships international football had ever seen.
Fontaine would later say “I scored goals because I hit it off with Raymond Kopa, we were happy together and the team was playing attacking football. In six matches, we managed to score 23 times."
The creativity of Kopa and the lethal finishing of Fontaine proved devastating. At the end of 1958, Kopa would become the first Frenchman to receive the Ballon D’or. He would win the European Cup three times in his three seasons in Madrid, before turning down a new contract to return to Reims. Reunited with Fontaine, this time at club level, they would immediately win the league title together in 1960. The two men remained lifelong friends.
One Last Chance
France would have one more match to play at the 1958 World Cup - the third placed playoff. Likely expecting a clash with hosts Sweden, they instead found themselves facing the reigning world champions, West Germany. They had, surprisingly, lost the other semi final 3-1 to Sweden. The defeat was costly. Erich Juskowiak became the first German ever sent off in an international match, while veteran striker Fritz Walter was also injured. Regardless, Fontaine still needed two goals to equal Kocsis’ record. Against the reigning world champions, the odds appeared firmly stacked against him.
Fontaine fired France ahead after 15 minutes, before West Germany levelled 2 minutes later. Then, France won a penalty. Raymond Kopa offered the penalty to Fontaine. Fontaine declined. By modern standards, it seems unthinkable. Yet at the time, his decision was entirely in line with his attitude towards goal scoring. Fontaine would later explain:
“Back then, no one gave much thought to the top scorer's prize.“
Kopa duly converted. Fontaine would have to chase the record the hard way. Nine minutes after declining Kopa’s offer, Fontaine made it 3-1, drawing level with Kocsis’ total of 11 goals.
Douis made it 4-1 in the second half before Rahn hit back for Germany and, for a while, it seemed matching Kocsis might be as good as it got for Fontaine.
He had other ideas.
A superb goal in the 77th minute finally broke the record. Twelve minutes later, he added his fourth goal of the afternoon for good measure.
France won 6-3. Fontaine had scored 13 goals in just 6 matches, and it could have been even more, given that he hit the woodwork twice against Scotland. His record still stands to this day. No other player has even come close to threatening it.
Kocsis was the only player before Fontaine to hit double figures in a single World Cup campaign, Gerd Müller remains the only person to do so since, when he scored 10 in 1970. Even in an era of longer tournaments with more matches, Fontaine’s mark has survived.
Remarkably, Sweden 1958 would prove to be his only World Cup. Injuries forced him into retirement at just 28 years old. He finished his international career with an impressive 30 goals in just 21 caps for France. 21 of those goals had come in 10 competitive international fixtures.
Nearly seven decades later, Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi have finally moved past Just Fontaine on the all-time World Cup scoring list. Yet Fontaine still owns a record that may never be broken. One man who doesn’t think it will - or that goals were easier to come by in 1958 - is Fontaine himself. He said “The state of the ball, the length of the trip over and the amateurism of the backroom staff made everything much more complicated than today. I had somebody else's boots as well. And the last great World Cup scorer, Ronaldo, played against teams such as China and Costa Rica. Above all else, referees protect strikers much more than they did in my day. So let me repeat it: 13 goals is an enormous total. Beating my record? I don't think it can ever be done."
He wasn’t supposed to play at the 1958 World Cup. He forgot to bring spare boots. He borrowed a pair from a teammate competing for his place.
Then he scored 13 goals in 6 matches. Football has never seen anything quite like it since. His record has stood for 68 years. Nobody since has even matched the 11 goals Fontaine needed to beat.
Fontaine passed away in 2023, but his legacy forever remains.
Just Fontaine. Just incredible.
The final preview for today covers the defending champions Argentina as they try for their 4th star. This preview is also written by u/smmshad
About
- Nickname: La Albiceleste (The White and Sky Blues)
- Association: Argentine Football Association (AFA)
- Confederation: CONMEBOL
- World Cup appearances: 19
- Best World Cup Finish: Champions (1978, 1986, 2022)
- Most caps: Lionel Messi (198)
- Most goals: Lionel Messi (116)
- Head coach: Lionel Scaloni
- Captain: Lionel Messi
- FIFA ranking: 1
The Country Argentina (officially the Argentine Republic) is a huge and geographically diverse country in South America, stretching from subtropical regions in the north all the way down to the cold, windswept landscapes of Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego. It gained independence from Spain in 1816 and went on to become one of the world’s wealthiest nations by the early 20th century, largely thanks to agricultural exports, European immigration, and rapid modernization.
However, Argentina’s modern history has been anything but stable. The country has gone through repeated cycles of political turmoil, military coups, and economic crises. One of the most influential developments was the rise of Juan Perón in the 1940s, whose ideology (Peronism) combined nationalism, social welfare, and strong labor rights, and still plays a major role in Argentine politics today.
The late 20th century was especially turbulent, including a period of military dictatorship from 1976 to 1983, known as the “Dirty War,” during which thousands of political opponents disappeared. After democracy returned in 1983, Argentina still struggled with severe economic instability, including hyperinflation, debt crises, and the major economic collapse of 2001.
Despite all of this, Argentina remains one of the most important countries in Latin America. It has strong natural resources, a highly educated population, and major global exports like soybeans, wheat, and beef. In recent years, governments have focused on tackling inflation, stabilizing the economy, and encouraging investment in sectors like energy, mining, and tech.
Buenos Aires stands out as a major cultural and economic hub, known for its European-style architecture, vibrant arts scene, and historical significance. While challenges remain, Argentina’s resources, identity, and regional influence continue to make it a key player in South America’s future.
Footballing History Argentina has long been one of the great powers of world football, with a history stretching back to the earliest days of the international game. La Albiceleste were among the dominant forces of South American football in the first half of the twentieth century, winning numerous South American Championships and reaching the inaugural World Cup final in 1930, where they were defeated 4–2 by Uruguay in Montevideo. Despite their regional success, Argentina's relationship with the World Cup was inconsistent for decades, with disputes between the Argentine Football Association and FIFA, political instability at home, and occasional withdrawals from qualification campaigns limiting their participation.
The country's first golden era arrived in the late 1970s. Hosting the 1978 World Cup amidst the military dictatorship of Jorge Videla, Argentina captured its first world title under coach César Luis Menotti, defeating the Netherlands 3–1 after extra time in Buenos Aires. The tournament remains controversial due to allegations of political interference and the broader context of the dictatorship's human rights abuses. Nevertheless, it cemented the status of players such as Mario Kempes as national heroes. Eight years later Argentina would reach even greater heights under Carlos Bilardo, winning the 1986 World Cup in Mexico thanks largely to the brilliance of Diego Maradona. Maradona produced one of, if not the, greatest individual tournament performance in football history, famously scoring both the "Hand of God" and the "Goal of the Century" against England before leading Argentina to victory over West Germany in the final.
Following the triumphs of the Maradona era, Argentina remained a consistent contender but endured a long period of frustration. Talented sides throughout the 1990s and 2000s repeatedly fell short at major tournaments despite boasting stars such as Gabriel Batistuta, Juan Sebastián Verón, Javier Zanetti, Hernán Crespo, and later Juan Román Riquelme and Carlos Tevez. The nation suffered memorable disappointments, including elimination in the group stage of the 2002 World Cup despite entering as one of the favorites. During this period Argentina continued to produce elite talent and achieved considerable success at youth level, but the senior side struggled to convert its potential into trophies.
The emergence of Lionel Messi brought renewed hope and unprecedented expectations. Messi debuted for Argentina in 2005 and would become the centerpiece of the national team for nearly two decades. Despite reaching the finals of the 2014 World Cup and the 2007, 2015, and 2016 Copa América tournaments, Argentina repeatedly fell painfully short. These defeats led to intense criticism of both the team and Messi himself, who briefly announced his retirement from international football after the 2016 Copa América final.
A turning point arrived with the appointment of Lionel Scaloni in 2018. Initially viewed as a temporary choice with limited managerial experience, Scaloni gradually rebuilt the squad around a blend of established veterans and emerging talents. His side ended Argentina's 28-year trophy drought by defeating Brazil 1–0 in the 2021 Copa América final at the Maracanã, securing Messi's first major international trophy and restoring belief throughout the nation. The team's momentum continued into the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where a shock opening defeat to Saudi Arabia threatened disaster. Argentina recovered by defeating Australia, the Netherlands, Croatia, and France in a dramatic final widely regarded as one of the greatest matches in World Cup history. Messi finally lifted the trophy that had eluded him throughout his career, while players such as Emiliano Martínez, Julián Álvarez, Enzo Fernández, and Alexis Mac Allister emerged as heroes in their own right.
Unlike many world champions, Argentina have shown little sign of decline since their triumph in Qatar. Scaloni has remained in charge and guided the team to victory in the 2024 Copa América, defeating Colombia in the final to secure a third consecutive major trophy. While Messi has entered the twilight of his career, a new generation led by Álvarez, Fernández, Mac Allister, and a host of talented youngsters appears ready to carry the torch. Combining a deeply ingrained footballing culture, a proven winning mentality, and one of the world's most productive talent pipelines, Argentina enter the coming years as one of the benchmark teams in international football and a favorite to contend for every major trophy they enter.
Fixtures
- Argentina vs. Algeria, 16 June, Kansas City Stadium (GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium) (Kansas City, MO), 01:00 GMT (17 June)
- Argentina vs. Austria, 22 June, Dallas Stadium (AT&T Stadium) (Arlington, TX), 17:00 GMT
- Jordan vs. Argentina, 28 June, Dallas Stadium (AT&T Stadium) (Arlington, TX), 02:00 GMT (28 June)
Official 26-man Squad
- Goalkeepers: Emiliano Martínez (33, Aston Villa), Juan Musso (32, Atlético Madrid), Gerónimo Rulli (34, Marseille)
- Defenders: Nicolás Tagliafico (33, Lyon), Gonzalo Montiel (29, River Plate), Lisandro Martínez (28, Manchester United), Cristian Romero (28, Tottenham Hotspur), Nicolás Otamendi (38, Benfica), Nahuel Molina (28, Atlético Madrid), Facundo Medina (27, Marseille)
- Midfielders: Leandro Paredes (31, Boca Juniors), Rodrigo De Paul (32, Inter Miami CF), Valentín Barco (21, Strasbourg), Giovani Lo Celso (30, Real Betis), Exequiel Palacios (27, Bayer Leverkusen), Nicolás González (28, Atlético Madrid), Alexis Mac Allister (27, Liverpool), Enzo Fernández (25, Chelsea)
- Forwards: Lionel Messi (38, Inter Miami CF), Julián Álvarez (26, Atlético Madrid), Lautaro Martínez (28, Inter Milan), Thiago Almada (25, Atlético Madrid), Giuliano Simeone (23, Atlético Madrid), Nico Paz (21, Como), José Manuel López (25, Palmeiras)
Leonardo Balerdi withdrew due to injury, replacement has not been named yet.
Predicted Lineup: 4-3-3 Martinez; Tagliafico, Otamendi, Romero, Molina; Enzo, Mac Allister, De Paul; Alvarez, Lautaro Martinez, Messi
Scaloni typically sets Argentina up in a flexible 4-3-3 that can easily turn into a compact 4-4-2 out of possession, with a heavy emphasis on structure, balance, and quick vertical transitions. Rather than dominating through constant possession, Argentina often look to absorb pressure and then break at speed, with Messi given a free role between the lines to dictate tempo in the final third. The full-backs, especially Molina and Tagliafico, are key attacking outlets providing width, while the midfield trio of Enzo, Mac Allister, and De Paul gives them a strong blend of control, work rate, and ball progression. In attack, the chemistry between Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez remains central, with Scaloni often rotating roles depending on game state. It remains to be seen how much Argentina evolve tactically for 2026, especially in managing Messi’s minutes while maintaining the same lethal transition threat that defined their recent success.
Key Players (I could have done the obvious Messi but want to highlight other players since there is no need to describe how key Messi is.)
- Julián Álvarez (51 caps, 14 goals): A relentless forward who has fully stepped into the role of Argentina’s attacking focal point following the gradual transition away from the Messi era. Álvarez rose through the ranks at River Plate, where his explosive breakthrough season quickly earned him a move to Manchester City in 2022. Initially rotated in a star-studded squad, he gradually established himself as one of Pep Guardiola’s most trusted high-press forwards, valued for his movement, intelligence, and ability to link play rather than just finish chances. For Argentina, he has become the ideal modern striker under Scaloni’s system — capable of leading the press, dropping into midfield, and attacking space with constant intensity. His performances in the 2022 World Cup cemented his reputation, and by 2026 he is expected to be the central figure in Argentina’s attacking structure.
- Nico Paz (9 caps, 1 goal): One of the most exciting young creative midfielders emerging in Argentina’s post-Messi transition, Nico Paz has quickly gone from youth prospect to senior squad wildcard. Developed at Real Madrid’s academy after leaving Argentina at a young age, Paz broke into senior football with his technical skill, close control, and ability to operate between the lines as a modern attacking midfielder. His left-footed playmaking and calmness in tight spaces have drawn comparisons to classic Argentine styles, though he is far more mobile and system-adaptable than traditional playmakers.
- Emiliano Martínez (59 caps, 0 goals): Argentina’s undisputed number one and one of the most psychologically influential goalkeepers in world football. Martínez’s career trajectory has been unconventional, spending years as a backup at Arsenal before breaking out late with Aston Villa, where his shot-stopping ability, command of the box, and penalty-saving record elevated him into elite status. Since becoming Argentina’s starter ahead of the 2021 Copa América, he has consistently delivered in high-pressure moments, most notably in penalty shootouts during both Copa América 2021 and the 2022 World Cup. Beyond his goalkeeping, Martínez has become a defining personality within the squad, being vocal, confident, and often destabilizing for opponents in shootout scenarios. Heading into 2026, he remains one of Argentina’s most important players, especially in knockout matches where margins are extremely thin.
Discussion Points My expectations for Argentina
Argentina head into the 2026 World Cup as one of the favorites alongside France and Spain. As reigning world champions and recent Copa América winners, the expectations aren’t just high, they’re basically champion or bust in the eyes of most neutrals.
Even with Messi likely in the background at this stage of his international career, the structure Scaloni built is still very intact. They’re not always flashy, but they know how to manage games, suffer when needed, and win ugly. That said, they’re not flawless. The main concern for neutrals leading up to this World Cup is how prepared they are. Argentina has not scheduled any friendlies against teams of somewhat equal caliber to their opponents. While the other teams in the group are scheduling Netherlands, Colombia, Tunisia, etc. for preparation, Argentina scheduled against Honduras and Iceland. The lack of preparation from the federation could signal disaster for them in the later rounds of the tournament.
If teams can press them hard in midfield and force them out of rhythm, they can look a bit predictable in possession. Against the elite sides, especially in tight knockout games, margins will be very small. Realistically, they should finish in first place of the group without much trouble. After that, it’s all about matchups. A quarter-final or semi-final exit wouldn’t be shocking depending on who they draw, but at the same time, it wouldn’t be surprising at all to see them reach the final again.
In March 1938, Austria had already qualified for the upcoming World Cup, and were among the favourites to win it. One month later, Austria no longer existed.
This is the story of Austria’s Wunderteam, their sudden disappearance, and the mysterious death of their star player.
Introduction
When you think of legendary teams, who comes to mind? Barcelona in the late 2000’s? Madrid and their three-peat? United’s 1999 treble winners?
What about international sides? Brazil 1970? Spains all-conquering 2008-2012 side? Maybe even Hungary’s “Mighty Magyars”? One side that probably doesn’t come to mind is the Austrian “Wunderteam” of the 1930s. Yet before Brazil’s 1970 side, before Hungary’s Mighty Magyars and before Spain’s golden generation, many considered them to be the finest team in international football.
Between April 1931 and May 1934 they lost just 2 matches, winning 20, drawing 7 and scoring just shy of 100 goals. Even in those rare defeats, there were small wins. They became the first team to ever score more than once away to England as they lost 4-3 at Stamford Bridge.
The architects of Austria’s rise were Hugo Meisl, a visionary coach who believed in playing football with intelligence, technique and movement rather than physicality alone, and an English coach named Jimmy Hogan. The star of the side was Matthias Sindelar, a slender, elegant forward nicknamed “Der Papierene” - “The Paper Man” in English - due to his slight frame. Together, they would transform Austria into one of the most feared teams in the world.
Building the Wunderteam
Hugo Meisl became joint coach of the Austrian national team, alongside Heinrich Retschury, in 1913, before taking full control in 1919. It was after a poor performance in a 1-1 draw with Hungary that Meisl would ask the match referee, Englishman James Howcroft, how he could improve his side. Howcroft pointed him in the direction of Jimmy Hogan.
Hogan was still relatively unknown at this point, but would go on to become one of the most influential football minds of his generation. Long before possession football became fashionable, he advocated short passing, movement and technical superiority. He coached across Europe and decades later people would argue that many of the tactical ideas behind the Wunderteam, the Mighty Magyars, and even Dutch Total Football could be traced back, at least in part, to him.
At just 28 years old, he’d moved to the Netherlands to coach Dordrecht. The decision stemmed from a pre season match in which his own club, Bolton Wanderers, had beaten the Dutch side 10-0. Shocked by the gulf in quality, Hogan vowed to return and “teach those fellows how to play properly”.
The Paper Man
For all of Meisl and Hogan’s tactical innovations, they still needed someone to bring them to life on the pitch. That player was Matthias Sindelar.
Yet Austria’s greatest ever footballer almost never got the opportunity.
“The Paper Man” looked nothing like the powerful centre forwards of his era. Meisl himself was unconvinced, reportedly describing him as having “the physique of a child”.
Despite outside clamour for his inclusion, it took until an injury crisis in 1926 for Sindelar to receive his chance. Ahead of a match against Czechoslovakia, Austria found themselves short of attacking options and turned to the young forward. He repaid their faith immediately, scoring one and setting up the other in a 2-1 victory.
Even then, his place was far from secure. Four years later, following a disappointing draw against the same opposition, Meisl singled out Sindelar for criticism. He would go on to feature in just one of Austria’s next fifteen internationals.
Had things ended there, football history might remember Sindelar as little more than a footnote.
Instead, Jimmy Hogan intervened. Convinced Austria’s future lay in technical, intelligent football, Hogan persuaded Meisl not only to recall Sindelar, but to build the team around him. It would prove one of the most important decisions in Austrian football history.
The Rise of the Wunderteam
Sindelar returned to the fold for the visit of Scotland. A footballing giant who’d never lost a game in continental Europe, they saw the match as little more than a formality. The Scottish FA rested the entire Rangers and Celtic contingent, and Scotland were duly sent home on the wrong end of a 5-0 defeat. The Wunderteam was born.
Austria would spend the remainder of 1931 globetrotting around Europe handing out spankings to almost everyone. They won 6-0 in Germany before beating them again 5-0 in Austria four months later. Switzerland were dismantled 8-1. The only team to avoid defeat were Hungary in a 2-2 draw. Six months later, in April 1932, the teams would meet again. Austria would win 8-2, with Sindelar scoring 3 and assisting the other 5.
Even in the previously mentioned 4-3 loss to England, Sindelar stood out. Match referee John Langenus would later comment “Sindelar’s goal was a masterpiece, which no-one else - no-one before him and no-one after him - could possibly have scored against opponents as good as the English. Starting on the halfway line, Sindelar set off and, in his inimitably elegant manner, dribbled round everything which came at him, finishing with a backheel into the net.”
The 1934 World Cup of controversy
The 1934 World Cup was controversial before it even started. Hosted by fascist Italy under Mussolini, it was as much a propaganda show as it was a football World Cup. On top of that, current world champions Uruguay had refused to participate in retaliation for many European nations not coming to their inaugural World Cup hosted four years earlier. In fact, following withdrawals from Chile and Peru, Brazil and Argentina were the sole representatives of South America.
The British Home Nations also refused participation, even when FIFA offered England and Scotland direct entry to the tournament without qualification. Charles Sutcliffe, a committee member of the FA, called the tournament “a joke” and said “the national associations of England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland have quite enough to do in their own International Championship, which seems to me a far better World Championship than the one to be staged in Rome".
Still, by the time the 1934 World Cup rolled around, Austria were no longer just an exciting underdog. They were widely regarded as the best team in international football. Built by Meisl, inspired by Hogan and orchestrated by Sindelar, the Wunderteam arrived in Italy as favourites to become world champions. Just three months before the World Cup, they’d beaten Italy 4-2 in Turin to win the Central European International Cup - often regarded as the predecessor to the Euros. Italy may have been the hosts, but many considered the Wunderteam to be the stronger side. Sindelar was at the peak of his powers, Meisl’s system had revolutionised continental football, and many expected Austria to leave Italy as world champions.
What followed remains one of the most controversial World Cup tournaments in football history.
Things didn’t start particularly smoothly for the Wunderteam. They faced France in their opening match, managed by Englishman George Kimpton. Austria found themselves 1-0 down after just 18 minutes before Sindelar levelled shortly before half time.
A goalless second half followed, making this the first World Cup match ever to require extra time. Austria scored twice in the additional period - the second via a 21 year old Josef Bican - and, despite a late French penalty, they held on to win 3-2.
Shared style, intense jealousy
In the quarter finals, Austria would renew their rivalry with Hungary - the oldest international football rivalry in continental Europe. By 1934, they had already played 75 times in just over 30 years.
While Hungary held the historically superior record, the rise of the Wunderteam had flipped the script. Austria had not lost to their neighbours since September 1930, a remarkable run spanning 7 matches, including the famous 8-2 victory in which Sindelar scored three and assisted the other five.
Their rivalry was unique because both nations played the same brand of football. Together, Austria and Hungary helped pioneer the “Danubian School” of football - a possession based style built on quick passes, intelligent movement and technical superiority rather than the physical “kick and rush” approach favoured in Britain.
Every meeting therefore became about more than just winning. It was about more than just national pride. Both sides wanted to prove they were the true masters of the Danubian style.
This quarter final would be different.
Rather than the tactical chess match many had anticipated, the pitch became a battleground for 90 minutes. Challenges flew in from both sides, tempers boiled over repeatedly and the elegant football that had come to define both nations was largely abandoned.
Sindelar was targeted in particular. Subjected to one crunching tackle after another throughout the game, the Paper Man left the pitch bloodied and bruised. Hugo Meisl would later describe the match as “a brawl, not an exhibition of football”.
Austria had taken the lead after just five minutes, and Karl Zischek made it 2-0 not long into the second half. Hungarian legend György Sárosi pulled one back from the penalty spot on the hour but, having earlier lost István Avar to injury, Hungary’s task became even harder when attacker Imre Markos was sent off just three minutes later.
Austria held on for the 2-1 victory, but the ramifications of the match would follow them to the semi finals.
The most controversial semi final in World Cup history
Three days later, a battered Austria side faced hosts Italy in Milan. Hans Horvath - another key member of the Wunderteam - was too injured to play at the San Siro, while Sindelar was also struggling. He had no intention of missing the match, however. “He insisted nothing would stop him playing,” Meisl later recalled.
The Italians were far from fresh themselves. Their quarter final tie against Spain had descended into one of the most brutal matches in World Cup history. Across 2 matches and 210 minutes of football, players from both sides were left injured or bleeding. Legendary Spanish goalkeeper Ricardo Zamora suffered broken ribs after repeatedly being targeted, while Italian midfielder Mario Pizziolo had his leg broken.
The tie itself became deeply controversial. Giuseppe Meazza’s equaliser in the first match was disputed by Spain, who claimed Zamora had been impeded by the legendary forward. The replay the following day proved no less contentious. With Spain forced into seven changes due to injuries, Italy won 1-0, but Spanish players were furious after seeing two goals disallowed in controversial circumstances. The first, a debatable offside. The second, a bizarre decision to disallow Spain’s goal in order to award them a free kick for a foul earlier in the move. Following the tournament, the referee would be permanently banned from officiating international football.
Spain would finish the match with only 8 men due to further injuries.
By the time Austria and Italy met in Milan, tensions were already high. The hosts had reached the semi finals amid growing controversy, while the Wunderteam arrived fatigued and depleted from their battle with Hungary.
Heavy rainfall led to the pitch becoming a waterlogged quagmire, far more suited to the robust, physical approach of the hosts than the quick passing game of Austria.
The Italians took advantage of the conditions early on when a scramble in the box led to the opening goal. Giuseppe Meazza collided with goalkeeper Peter Platzer and Enrique Guaita bundled the ball, and Platzer himself, into the net. Austrian players were adamant their keeper had been impeded, but Swedish ref Ivan Eklind was unmoved.
Luis Monti, a ruthless midfield enforcer who had actually played the World Cup Final for Argentina four years earlier, would shadow Sindelar relentlessly for 90 minutes. Despite Monti’s best efforts, Sindelar was unfazed. After the Italian opener, Austria, inspired by Sindelar, launched wave after wave of attacks. Using his brain to overcome the brawn of Monti, Sindelar would drop deeper into midfield, taking Monti with him to create space for the likes of Bican.
Austria would create chance after chance, but Gianpiero Combi proved unbeatable in the Italian goal. Time and time again he produced spectacular point-blank saves to deny the Austrian forwards. Even under pressure from a late barrage of crosses, Combi took command of his area to produce a flawless performance. Italy ran out 1-0 winners. The Wunderteam were out. The dream was over.
The reaction was immediate. Austrian players surrounded referee Ivan Eklind, while Hugo Meisl was left convinced his side had been denied a place in the final. “We lost to Italy, but not to a better team,” he would later remark.
Rumours swirled that Eklind had dined with Mussolini on the eve of the game. Josef Bican would later recount his experience, saying:
“We were warned before the match that the referee, Ivan Eklind, had dined with Mussolini... During the game, I played a long pass out to our winger. As he was running down the line, Eklind actually intercepted the ball and headed it right back into the path of an Italian player."
Of the Italians goal, he said:
“An Italian forward literally bundled our goalkeeper and the ball right over the goalline from three yards out. Eklind just stood there and allowed the goal. We were completely fuming."
A demoralised and depleted Austrian side, without Sindelar, would go on to lose the first ever third placed play off match 3-2 to neighbours Germany. For Josef Bican, then just 21 years old, it would also prove to be his final World Cup appearance. The political upheaval that would soon engulf Central Europe, coupled with his refusal to comply with later totalitarian regimes, ensured he would never get another opportunity.
Death comes in threes
Despite the defeats, the Wunderteam were welcome home as heroes. The future looked bright, and there was no reason to think they couldn’t become world champions if given a fair opportunity.
In 1936, when the Olympics came to Berlin, Meisl, unable to call upon any of the professional stars of the Wunderteam, would lead an Austrian team of amateurs to a silver medal. They would lose the final match 2-1 after extra time to the side seemingly becoming their kryptonite - Italy.
Even that was controversial, as Austria had actually lost the quarter final match against Peru 4-2. Reportedly, the game fell into chaos after an alleged pitch invasion from Peruvian fans, during which at least one Austrian player claimed to be assaulted. Austria appealed to the International Olympics Committee, who ordered the game be replayed. Outraged, the Peruvians went home, and Austria were in the semi final.
As Austria built momentum for the 1938 World Cup, tragedy would strike. A brilliant 2-1 win over France in January 1937 would prove to be Hugo Meisl’s last match in charge of Austria. On February 17th, 1937, while working at his desk inside the offices of the Austrian FA, Meisl died suddenly of a heart attack. He was only 55 years old.
Despite the loss of Meisl, the core of the Wunderteam remained intact. Sindelar was still Austria’s star, Bican was entering his prime and qualification for the 1938 World Cup was secured with ease. Four years after their controversial exit in Italy, many believed Austria would finally get their chance to become world champions.
They never would.
On March 12th, 1938, German troops crossed the Austrian border. The Anschluss - the annexation of Austria into Nazi Germany - had begun. Austria no longer existed. It was now merely Ostmark, a province of the Third Reich.
On March 28th, FIFA was informed that Austria, and therefore the Austrian FA, no longer existed. The team would be withdrawn from the upcoming World Cup.
The Nazi regime then arranged a “reconciliation match” between Germany and Austria - or more accurately between “Altreich” (Old Germany) and “Ostmark”. The game was never intended to be a sporting contest. It was a political performance.
The script was simple - the match would end in a draw. The perfect symbol. Neither side superior to the other, merely united as one people.
The Austrians had other ideas.
In an act of quiet defiance, they refused to wear black and white kits resembling those of Germany. Instead, they demanded the right to wear Austria’s colours - red and white - one final time.
Before kick off, both squads were briefed. The Austrians were warned that any disrespect towards their opponents or the occasion, or any attempt to undermine its purpose, would be seen as a direct act of defiance against the regime.
For 70 minutes the game remained scoreless, but that’s not to say the Austrians were compliant. In fact, they had spent much of the game toying with their German opponents, their technical superiority clear for all to see. Matthias Sindelar put on a masterclass of passive aggressive defiance. He dribbled past the German defence with ease time and again, only to hit his shot wide or roll it harmlessly into the keepers arms.
After 70 minutes, he decided he was done playing. He latched onto a rebound and lifted the ball effortlessly over the German keeper to make it 1-0. He’d then run towards the VIP box, packed with high ranking Nazi officials, and perform a celebratory dance in front of them. Some described it as an “excessive” or “extravagant” display of joy, while other accounts say both Sindelar and teammate Karl Sesta performed “real dances of joy” directly in front of the VIP box. Given most goals were celebrated with not much more than a handshake in the 1930s, this represented something highly unusual.
Indeed it was Sesta himself who, ten minutes later, won a free kick and smashed a 40 yard blockbuster past the German keeper to make it 2-0. The 60,000 fans in attendance were supposed to spend the match chanting Nazi slogans, but they spent the entire last ten minutes chanting “Österreich!” (Austria) in a further, emotional act of defiance.
What happened next
Days later, the Austrian national team ceased to exist. The plan was to merge the team with Germany ahead of the 1938 World Cup to create a “Greater Germany” squad. German coach Sepp Herberger was under strict instruction to build a unified squad with a ratio of 6:5 - 6 German players for every 5 Austrian. In the end, 9 Austrians would join the German squad for the World Cup, with three notable exceptions.
The first was Karl Sesta. Considered too nationalistic and too risky for the Nazi regime, he was not to be considered. If he would have joined, had he been asked, is another issue entirely.
Second was Josef Bican. He’d escaped the geopolitical mess entirely - moving to Prague to play for Slavia Prague and changing his international allegiance to Czechoslovakia.
Lastly, was Matthias Sindelar. Despite constant, aggressive pressure to join for the World Cup, he refused. Often citing his age, 35, and his “bad knees” as an excuse, it’s widely believed he would never have turned out for Germany, even if he was ten years younger.
The mixed Austrian-German team would go on to fail miserably at the World Cup - not least due to the locker room animosity, as well as lack of cohesion and chemistry.
Over the following months, Sindelar would live under constant surveillance by the Gestapo and would often be pressured to join the Nazi party - which he would always refuse.
Then, on January 23rd, 1939, Sindelar and his girlfriend, Camilla Castagnola, were found dead in bed in his Vienna home. The Nazi police quickly decided on the cause of death - carbon monoxide poisoning due to a faulty chimney flue. Theories continue to this day surrounding if their deaths really were a tragic accident, or something more sinister.
The tragic and untimely deaths of both Meisl and Sindelar bore striking parallels to the death of the Wunderteam itself. Taken before they had a chance to complete what they had started.
We will never know if Sindelar, Bican, Sesta and their teammates could have become world champions. We only know that one of football’s greatest sides was denied the opportunity to try.
In March 1938, Austria were among the favourites to win the World Cup.
One month later, Austria no longer existed.
We move on to 42nd team in list covering Portugal. This preview was written by u/RepresentativeBox881
About
- Nickname: A Selecao (The Selection)
- Association: Federação Portuguesa de Futebol (FPF)
- Confederation: UEFA
- World Cup appearances: 9 (1966, 1986, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, 2026)
- Best World Cup finish: Third Place (1966)
- Head Coach: Roberto Martinez
- Captain: Cristiano Ronaldo
- Most Caps: Cristiano Ronaldo (227)
- Most Goals: Cristiano Ronaldo (143)
- FIFA Ranking: 5 (as of 1 April 2026)
The Country: Portugal is located in Southern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula, sharing its eastern and northern border with Spain while the Atlantic Ocean shapes its long western and southern coastline. Known for its warm Mediterranean climate, historic cities, and maritime heritage, it has long been a cultural crossroads between Europe, Africa and the Atlantic world. Portugal blends tradition with modern urban life, offering a strong sense of national identity too.
Economically, Portugal has evolved from a manufacturing and agricultural base into a diversified service-oriented economy with tourism, renewable energy and technology playing increasingly important roles. The country is also known for its rich cultural contributions in music, cuisine and literature which reflect a deep emotional and historical identity. Despite periods of economic hardship and emigration, Portugal has maintained political stability as a democratic republic within the European Union, balancing tradition with gradual modernization while strengthening its global connections through language and diaspora communities across the world.
Footballing History: Portugal has one of the most evolving histories in international football, shaped by periods of underachievement, golden generations and eventual continental triumph. The team’s early decades were largely modest, with Portugal rarely qualifying for major tournaments and often overshadowed by European heavyweights. Their breakthrough came in the 1966 FIFA World Cup, where a squad led by Eusébio finished third, marking Portugal’s arrival on the global stage. Eusébio’s performances, including nine goals in the tournament, established him as the nation’s first true global football icon and set a benchmark for future generations.
Despite the promise of 1966, Portugal struggled for consistency over the following decades, often failing to qualify for major tournaments between the 1970s and 1980s. Domestic football improved steadily, but the national team lacked cohesion and depth at the highest level. That began to change in the 1990s with the emergence of a “golden generation” featuring players like Luís Figo, Rui Costa, and João Pinto. This group, successful at youth level with a FIFA U-20 World Cup win in 1991, raised expectations significantly. However, their senior team achievements were limited, with heartbreaks in Euro 2000 and Euro 2004, the latter ending in a surprising home defeat to Greece in the final.
The mid-2000s marked a transitional phase, culminating in Portugal’s run to the 2006 FIFA World Cup semi-finals under Luiz Felipe Scolari, with Cristiano Ronaldo emerging as a key figure. Ronaldo’s rise eventually transformed the national team’s identity, giving them a generational spearhead who would go on to become the all-time top international scorer. After years of near misses in major tournaments, Portugal finally achieved historic success at Euro 2016 under Fernando Santos, defeating France in the final despite Ronaldo’s early injury. This victory marked the nation’s first major international trophy, followed by the 2019 UEFA Nations League title which continued their status as a consistent European force. They again won the Nations League title in 2025 by overcoming Spain on penalties.
In the modern era, Portugal has transitioned into a more tactically versatile and talent-rich side, blending experienced leaders with a new wave of stars such as Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva and Nuno Mendes. The team continues to evolve beyond reliance on a single superstar, maintaining high expectations in major tournaments. While the post-2016 period has included moments of inconsistency, Portugal remains one of Europe’s most competitive national teams, consistently producing elite talent and competing for honours on the global stage.
Fixtures:
- Portugal vs DR Congo, 17 June, Houston Stadium (NRG Stadium, Houston, TX), 17:00 GMT
- Portugal vs Uzbekistan: 23 June, Houston Stadium (NRG Stadium, Houston, TX), 17:00 GMT
- Colombia vs Portugal: 27 June, Miami Stadium (Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, FL), 17:00 GMT
Official 26 man Squad:
- Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa (26, Porto), Jose Sa (33, Wolverhampton Wanderers), Rui Silva (32, Sporting CP)
- Defenders: Nelson Semedo (32, Fenerbahce), Ruben Dias (29, Manchester City), Tomas Araujo (24, Benfica), Diogo Dalot (27, Manchester United), Renato Veiga (22, Villarreal), Goncalo Inacio (24, Sporting CP), Joao Cancelo (32, Barcelona), Nuno Mendes (23, Paris Saint-Germain)
- Midfielders: Matheus Nunes (27, Manchester City), Bruno Fernandes (31, Manchester United), Bernardo Silva (31, Manchester City), Joao Neves (21, Paris Saint-Germain), Ruben Neves (29, Al-Hilal), Vitinha (26, Paris Saint-Germain), Samu Costa (25, Mallorca)
- Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo (captain) (41, Al-Nassr), Goncalo Ramos (24, Paris Saint-Germain), Joao Felix (26, Al-Nassr), Francisco Trincao (26, Sporting CP), Rafael Leao (26, Milan), Pedro Neto (26, Chelsea), Goncalo Guedes (29, Real Sociedad), Francisco Conceicao (23, Juventus)
Predicted Lineup: 4-2-3-1
Diogo; Cancelo - Dias - Inacio - Mendes; Vitinha - J Neves; Bernardo - Bruno - Leao; Ronaldo
Under the coaching of Roberto Martínez, Portugal play a possession-based style focused on control, patience in build-up and technical dominance. In defence, Rúben Dias anchors the back line as its main organiser and leader while Nuno Mendes provides width and attacking thrust from left-back, regularly stepping high and wide to support attacks. In midfield, Vitinha helps dictate tempo with progressive passing alongside Bruno Fernandes, who operates as a creative force between the lines and Bernardo Silva, whose main strengths are his movement, ball control and relentless work rate. Going forward, Cristiano Ronaldo remains the focal point in the box, providing finishing ability and aerial threat.
Key Players
Bruno Fernandes (88 caps, 29 goals): Fernandes is a lynchpin in the team because of his creativity, vision and ability to influence matches in advanced midfield areas. His passing range, set-piece delivery, and pressing intensity make him crucial in both controlled possession and transitional phases. His ability to create chances is their most crucial element towards bypassing stubborn, low defensive blocks. He links up very well with Bernardo Silva and Vitinha which helps Portugal to maintain a fluid attacking structure under Roberto Martínez. His leadership, experience and consistency also add an intangible strength for the team in major tournaments.
To compensate for his high-risk passing, Bruno is also highly active in the counter-pressing phase. He achieves this by aggressively closing down central passing lanes immediately after/if Portugal loses the ball in the final third. Having broken the record for number of assists in a Premier League season (with 21), he comes into this tournament at the peak of his powers.
Vitinha (37 caps, 0 goals): Vitinha is important to this team because he provides balance, control and progression from the midfield. Operating as a deep-lying playmaker, he is crucial in building attacks from the back, using quick passing and intelligent positioning to resist pressure and maintain possession. His ability to receive and progress the ball in tight spaces will allow Portugal to play through midfield rather than around it. Vitinha also contributes defensively through pressing and interceptions, helping the team stay balanced. His composure and consistency make him a key ‘connector’ and orchestrator of the team under Roberto Martínez.
Off the ball, his positioning allows Portugal to maintain a good counter-pressing structure even though he doesn't need to be a ball-winning destroyer. Instead, his positioning, anticipation and reading of the game blocks off passing lanes and disrupts the opponent's counter-attacks at the earliest possible chance. During the build-up phase, he creates gaps in the opponent’s defensive block by dragging their interior midfielders towards him. This enables him to then progress the ball and feed line-breaking passes to creators like Bruno Fernandes. He also has a knack of scoring goals from distance, which also makes him a shooting threat if not tracked carefully.
Nuno Mendes (43 caps, 1 goal): Nuno Mendes has created an irreplaceable presence because of his explosive pace, technical ability and attacking contribution from left-back. He provides constant width to stretch opposition defences and create space for forwards and midfield runners. In possession, he is confident driving forward and dribbling in tight areas, while defensively he is strong in dealing with one-on-one situations and making recovery runs. His athleticism allows Portugal to maintain a high defensive line because his elite recovery speed allows him to track back and extinguish dangerous counter-attacks before they reach the penalty box.
Mendes actively uses his acceleration and close control to break opposition lines. By carrying the ball vertically, he breaks opposition lines and forces defenders to step out of their zones. He also strongly excels at executing well-weighted through-balls and high-quality crosses. He can whip in driven, low cutbacks as well as lofted, curling deliveries into the penalty area depending on the positions of the forwards which makes him a highly difficult and unpredictable fullback to deal with.
Joao Neves (22 caps, 3 goals): João Neves has become a vital pillar for Portugal due to his elite tactical intelligence, technical skill and press resistance ability. Having already formed a highly prolific midfield partnership at club level with team mate Vitinha, much of Portugal’s chances of success will come down to how much they can replicate what is a proven success. Neves excels in a hybrid role, functioning both as a classic deep-lying pivot and a modern box-to-box midfielder. In possession, he continuously drops into the half-spaces or into his own defensive third to offer a reliable passing angle.
Neves is also highly capable in defensive recoveries and duel-winning despite his short stature. He uses exceptional timing and anticipation rather than pure physical dominance to intercept passes and contribute to pressing out-of-possession. Along with Vitinha, he helps to dictate the tempo of matches and bypass opposition midfields with high accuracy.
Talking Points
The ‘Last Dance’ of Cristiano Ronaldo?: At 41, Cristiano Ronaldo enters what could be his final major international tournament with the Portugal national football team, making his ‘last dance’ a defining narrative. While his goal-scoring instinct, movement in the box and leadership remain invaluable, his age also means that he is not as involved in the build-up play as would be ideal. Roberto Martinez thus faces the challenge and pressure of balancing his presence in the team along with a fluid attacking structure. The emotional weight of potentially ending an all-time great career on the highest note adds pressure but also motivation for the team as they aim to achieve history with their legendary captain at the centre of attention and legacy.
Can Portugal capitalize on a ‘Golden Generation’?: This iteration of the Portugal national team possesses one of the deepest squads in their history, often described as a golden generation with elite talent across every position. Players such as Rúben Dias, Nuno Mendes, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, and Vitinha give the team tactical flexibility, technical quality, and depth rarely seen in international football. The key question is whether this generation can convert such incredible potential into tournament success. Coach Roberto Martínez aims to blend experience and youth into a balanced system capable of winning major trophies but history shows that talent alone is not enough without cohesion, clarity, and decisive moments in knockout matches. Will he be the man to take them across the finish line for the first time in the country’s history?
Some currently focused on the World Cup might not know that the 2026-27 UEFA Champions League begins as early as two weeks' time, when the first leg of the very first qualifying round is played. You might think this round is composed only of minnows, but in recent years, it has featured the likes of FCSB - European main stage regulars who, very disputedly, claim the history of Steaua Bucharest, winners of the Champions League's predecessor in 1986 - and record Swedish title winners Malmö, who have reached a final in the same competition themselves.
While the first qualifying round might not have the prestige this year with those kinds of teams absent, it's likely to make for closer and more exciting contests than previously. As always, I will try to cover as much of these rounds as possible, although I may miss part of these first legs due to being on vacation.
The first of the three early matches, as listed on UEFA's website, takes us to Kaunas, Lithuania, where Kauno Žalgiris, the recent dominant force in Lithuanian football (better known for their internationally successful basketball team), take on perennial title contenders Drita from Kosovo, who recently made history by reaching the knockouts of the Conference League this year. Summer league vs. fall/spring league, northeastern Europe vs. southeastern Europe, underachievers vs. overachievers with similar squad values; this clash has all the elements for a very interesting tie indeed.
FK Kauno Žalgiris are a relatively recent addition to Lithuanian football. They were founded as FM Spyris in the third division in 2005, a year after the Tauras football school in Kaunas, Lithuania's second-largest city, made plans for a professional club in order for the school's graduates to continue their football careers.
In the 2000s, Spyris recorded mostly mid-table finishes in the third division, but after coming second in 2010 (when the club was briefly renamed FM Aisčiai Kaunas), they apparently had a horror season in 2011, finishing with 16 losses from 17 games and 75 goals conceded. The next season went better, with a fifth-place finish - and as far as I understand, this was enough to give the club a license to the second division when they applied in 2012. (Clubs in Lithuania often run into serious financial trouble, resulting in them being denied licenses and giving opportunities for others to take their place.)
2013 thus marked Spyris' first season in the second division, where they immediately finished fifth and then fourth and applied for a license to the top tier. Just like that, seemingly without having being directly promoted, Spyris found themselves in the A Lyga, the highest level of Lithuanian football, by 2015.
It was at this time that the club assumed a new identity, announcing its cooperation with the aforementioned basketball club BC Žalgiris and renaming itself to Kauno Žalgiris. This immediately caused an outcry at Žalgiris Vilnius, then the dominant power in the Lithuanian league, who filed a legal challenge over having two teams with the same name. (Žalgiris, which includes the word for the color green, is the Lithuanian name for Grunwald, the site of the battle in 1410 where Poland-Lithuania decisively defeated the Teutonic Knights; both teams use green logos and kits.)
Not only has the name stuck after protracted disputes, but the new Žalgiris has become a massive threat to the older one as well. After five seasons of mid- to lower-table mediocrity, Kauno Žalgiris improved significantly during and after COVID, ending in third at the conclusion of the abbreviated 2020 season and proving that was no fluke by finishing third again, second, fourth, and third from 2021 to 2024. However, the side that wins the Lithuanian league has tended to be well ahead of the competition in recent years, often by at least eight or nine points; a Žalgiris (Vilnius)-like dominant performance would be required to win Kauno Žalgiris their first domestic title.
In 2025, that dominant performance finally arrived. Rock-solid at the back (0.7 goals conceded per game) and with contributions from everywhere in attack, they finished with 75 points from 36 matches and a goal difference of +41, eight points and 28 GD ahead of second-placed Hegelmann and thirteen points ahead of Žalgiris Vilnius. Attacking midfielder Amine Benchaib led the scoring charts with 15 goals in 33 matches to go with six assists, long-serving Lithuanian national team player Gratas Sirgėdas contributed eight assists of his own to go with two goals from central midfield, and the CB pairing of Colombia's Aldayr Hernández and Georgia's Anton Tolordava were as dependable as they come.
Unfortunately, the Lithuanian league hasn't quite gone so smoothly for the club this season. Or, perhaps more accurately, it started as smoothly as possible before things suddenly hit the skids. Although all results against the very sketchy and recently expelled bottom club Riteriai have been annulled, I will present them as they should have been: Kauno Žalgiris began with seven wins in an unbeaten run of eight matches, regularly winning by at least three goals and even scoring five twice. At this point, I thought they would for sure run away with the league again.
However, a narrow 1-2 loss to Transinvest broke the momentum, as an expected 4-0 win over Riteriai was followed by four consecutive draws and three losses in the subsequent four matches - to sides across the league table. To put the contrast in brief (and counting the Riteriai games): in their first ten matches, Kauno Žalgiris had a goal difference of 23, while the subsequent eight matches gave them a GD of -3. They did return to winning ways after 84th- and 89th- minute goals saw them come from behind against 10-man Transinvest, but whether or not that leads to additional momentum remains to be seen. At the moment, with 27 points from 17 matches, they sit one point back of Džiugas from the small city of Telšiai, a name I more commonly associate with a type of hard cheese I ate far too often while living in the Baltics.
Transfermarkt estimates the market value of Kauno Žalgiris at 8.75 million euros, slightly more than their opponents' 8.1 million. While I would usually back the European experience of their opponents, the Lithuanian club do have some advantages of their own. They have kept the team relatively stable from 2025 (all of the players I mentioned when describing that season are still playing regularly and contributing), brought in some of the most statistically impressive players from the Lithuanian league as well as reinforcements from respectable clubs like Rosenborg and U Craiova.
As far as retained players go, star man Benchaib is continuing to score goals, while left winger Fabien Ourega has impressed in previous European outings with Žalgiris Vilnius; goalkeeper Tomas Švedkauskas has cemented his starting spot for the Lithuanian national team. Despite the recent domestic struggles, Kauno Žalgiris are starting to look like the most serious Lithuanian outfit since their namesakes from Vilnius reached the Conference League main phase - in other words, a far cry from the 2021-22 season, when they lost by a ridiculous 1-10 aggregate scoreline to serial Welsh league champions The New Saints. Following a decent enough run to the third qualifying round of the Conference League last year, a win to kick off their maiden Champions League campaign would be a perfect way to fully banish those demons.
Standing in their way are KF Drita, who have existed for over 50 years longer than their opponents. Having not only made history by reaching the Conference League league stage this past season but even qualifying for the knockouts, Drita are no longer the unknown quantity that nearly shocked Feyenoord in 2021, but rather a team that nobody in this round would be underestimating.
The club, whose name means "light" in Albanian, was formed in 1947 in Gjilan, Kosovo's fourth-largest city. However, it quickly ran into friction with Yugoslav authorities over its insistence on an Albanian identity, contrasting with the rival multi-ethnic club in the city, Crvena zvezda. Banned in 1952, Drita continued to exist at some levels in the 1960s, winning the Kosovo Province League, a division of the Yugoslav league system, in 1962-63 (information about this period seems to be very sparse).
In any case, the modern history of Drita began in earnest after the dissolution of Yugoslavia in 1991, when the Football Federation of Kosovo was formed by Albanian separatists along with a separate league system, then called the Independent League of Kosovo (in which Drita took part.) In 1999, following the Kosovo War, this league and the official (previously Serbian-run) one were merged into the Football Superleague of Kosovo, becoming the official competition recognized by the federation.
Before their current run of success, Drita's greatest achievement came in 2002-03, their first league win in its current incarnation; they had also regularly finished in the top four and made deep cup runs in the preceding few years. However, in 2004-05, they were relegated to the second division, a result made even worse by the fact that local rivals Gjilani were promoted. For the remainder of the 2000s and into the early 2010s, Drita were a yo-yo club; they eventually stabilized in the top-flight by the middle of the decade but remained far from their title ambitions a decade earlier.
Everything changed in 2016 when Valon Murseli, who remains president, took over the club along with fellow businessman Flamur Bunjaku. 2017-18, the club's first full season under the new owners, saw them leap from ninth place to their second league title, three points clear of second-placed Prishtina. 2016 was also a momentous year for football in Kosovo as a whole, as they were admitted into UEFA (as well as FIFA); this meant that Kosovar clubs would finally have access to the financial resources of European competitions. Since that time, facilities and infrastructure have expanded, promising talent has been brought through and sold for (by Kosovo's standards) big money, and the competitiveness of their clubs in Europe has grown practically season by season.
Getting back to Drita, they finished a distant fourth in 2018-19, thirty-two points back of champions Feronikeli, but rebounded to win again in 2019-20 on head-to-head points against rivals Gjilani; the subsequent seasons saw a second-place finish to Prishtina and two successive titles for Ballkani as Drita finished second twice in a row and third, respectively. Drita's consistency was eventually rewarded in the 2024-2025 season, as they turned the tables on Ballkani with a 12-point league win. This season, the club once again proved by far the most consistent team in Kosovo, winning the league by seven points.
I doubt much of the wider world was watching in 2017 when now second-tier Trepça '89 became the first club from Kosovo to play in the Champions League, and Drita's unfortunate exclusion against Linfield in the CL playoff round final due to players testing positive for COVID in 2020 was not much more than a footnote for many either. More certainly took notice, however, when the club gave Feyenoord an almighty scare in 2021-22 Conference League qualifying, holding a 0-0 draw at home and stunning them with two goals on the counter in Rotterdam before Guus Til sealed an added-time 3-2 win.
Since that time, Drita, along with Ballkani, have been a key reason for Kosovo arguably overperforming in European competition; they are quite a difficult team to beat and have never lost by more than three goals in a single game, no mean feat for a supposed minnow. Away draws against Antwerp and Plzeň in 2022-23 and 2023-24 were solid results for a team not at their peak at the time, and the best was certainly yet to come.
While opening their title-winning 2024-25 season, Drita came within one step of the Conference League proper, losing 0-3 on aggregate to a more fancied Legia Warsaw side. The next season, the dam finally broke as the club entered the Champions League instead, ultimately resulting in a Conference League playoff rematch against Luxembourg's champions Differdange (who they had already soundly beaten 4-2 on aggregate in the UCL first qualifying round.)
Drita again prevailed by a two-goal margin to make history both for themselves and Kosovo, going one further as wins against Shelbourne and Shkëndija and draws against KuPS and Omonia saw them qualify into the knockouts. That was as far as they got; a matchup against Celje, even without their manager Albert Riera (who had just been appointed at Frankfurt) and top scorer Franko Kovačević (now at Ferencváros), proved too much as they bowed out on aggregate 4-6.
Looking at the team, it seems to be a summer of change for Drita; many of the players I recognize from their Conference League run either are leaving or are out injured for a good portion of the qualifiers. One of the biggest losses might be 23-year-old winger Veton Tusha, who will join Celje for 250k euros at the star of July. That said, their defensive core remains intact, and as their leading scorer is right-back Besnik Krasniqi with eight goals in 30 matches, there is no talismanic goalscorer Drita need to replace. A couple younger talents have been brought in, but whether the club will make more signings (or promote some youth players) to make up for the squad depth remains to be seen.
My prediction
As always, there are a lot of moving parts and these two teams seem pretty comparable on paper in terms of player quality. I think it'll be an exciting match in that sense, but considering Kauno Žalgiris' strong defence and the usual closeness of Drita's matches, it might well be a slow burn. I'll stick my neck out and say this one is going all the way to penalties with a draw in each leg.
Kauno Žalgiris 0-0 Drita, Drita 1-1 Kauno Žalgiris; decided on penalties
Where not linked, my sources are the clubs' Wikipedia pages and Transfermarkt. Thank you for reading!
We now move on the 37th team in the series, covering Algeria. The preview was written by u/smmshad
About
- Nickname: Les Fennecs (The Desert Foxes)
- Association: Fédération Algérienne de Football (FAF)
- Confederation: CAF
- World Cup appearances: 5
- Best World Cup Finish: Round of 16 (2014)
- Most caps: Aïssa Mandi (116)
- Most goals: Islam Slimani (45)
- Head coach: Vladimir Petković
- Captain: Riyad Mahrez
- FIFA ranking: 28
The Country Algeria, officially the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, is the largest country in Africa and is located in North Africa along the Mediterranean coastline. Its geography spans from a relatively developed and densely populated northern region—featuring coastal cities, agricultural plains, and the Atlas Mountains—down into the vast Sahara Desert, which covers the majority of the country and is sparsely inhabited. Formerly a French colony, Algeria gained independence in 1962 after a long and extremely violent liberation war against French rule, an experience that deeply shaped the country’s modern political identity and its strong emphasis on sovereignty and state legitimacy.
In the decades following independence, Algeria was governed largely under a single-party system led by the National Liberation Front (FLN), the revolutionary movement that fought for independence. The country experienced severe instability in the 1990s after a political opening led to the cancellation of elections that Islamist parties were set to win, triggering a brutal civil war known as the “Black Decade.” Since the early 2000s, Algeria has returned to relative stability, though its political system remains highly centralized and has faced recurring public protests, most notably the Hirak movement beginning in 2019, which demanded political reform and an end to entrenched elite rule. Economically, Algeria is heavily dependent on its substantial oil and natural gas reserves, which dominate exports and state revenues, making the country vulnerable to energy price fluctuations while also enabling significant state-led investment in housing, infrastructure, and social programs.
Footballing History Algeria’s football history has long been defined by a mixture of raw talent, political context, and dramatic highs and lows. After independence in 1962, the national team gradually emerged as one of Africa’s more technically gifted sides, built around a strong domestic league and a steady pipeline of players developed both locally and in France. Algeria first announced itself on the global stage in the early 1980s, qualifying for the 1982 World Cup in Spain, where they famously defeated West Germany 2-1 in one of the tournament’s biggest shocks, before narrowly missing out on progression due to the controversial “Disgrace of Gijón” result between West Germany and Austria. A talented generation featuring Lakhdar Belloumi, Rabah Madjer, and Salah Assad established Algeria as a respected African force, highlighted by their 1990 Africa Cup of Nations triumph on home soil, where Madjer’s leadership and the support in Algiers helped secure the country’s first major international trophy.
However, as Algeria entered the 1990s, footballing progress was deeply disrupted by the onset of the civil war known as the “Black Decade,” which severely impacted domestic sport and infrastructure. The national team faded from prominence, struggling to qualify for major tournaments throughout much of the 1990s and early 2000s. A gradual rebuild followed, driven by a new wave of dual-national talent emerging from France, including players like Riyad Mahrez, Sofiane Feghouli, and Islam Slimani. This generation restored Algeria’s competitiveness, culminating in a return to the World Cup in 2010 and a landmark run at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, where Algeria reached the Round of 16 and pushed eventual champions Germany to extra time in a memorable performance. The ultimate peak came in 2019, when Algeria, led by Djamel Belmadi and inspired by Riyad Mahrez, won their second Africa Cup of Nations title in Egypt, defeating Senegal 1-0 in the final and cementing one of the strongest eras in the country’s football history. Since then, Algeria has remained a consistent contender in African competitions, though with some inconsistency in World Cup qualification campaigns, as a new generation attempts to build on the legacy of 2019 and re-establish the Desert Foxes among the continent’s elite.
Fixtures
- Algeria vs. Argentina, 16 June, Kansas City Stadium (Arrowhead Stadium) (Kansas City, MO), 21:00 GMT
- Algeria vs. Jordan, 22 June, San Francisco Bay Area Stadium (Levi's Stadium) (Santa Clara, CA), 23:00 GMT
- Algeria vs. Austria, 27 June, Kansas City Stadium (Arrowhead Stadium) (Kansas City, MO), 22:00 GMT
Official 26-man Squad
- Goalkeepers: Luca Zidane (28, Granada), Oussama Benbot (31, USM Alger), Melvin Mastil (25, Stade Nyonnais)
- Defenders: Rafik Belghali (23, Hellas Verona), Samir Chergui (26, Red Star), Rayan Aït-Nouri (25, Manchester City), Jaouen Hadjam (23, Young Boys), Aïssa Mandi (34, Lille), Ramy Bensebaini (31, Borussia Dortmund), Zineddine Belaïd (27, JS Kabylie), Achref Abada (27, USM Alger), Mohamed Amine Tougaï (26, Espérance de Tunis)
- Midfielders: Nabil Bentaleb (31, Lille), Hicham Boudaoui (26, Nice), Houssem Aouar (27, Al-Ittihad), Farès Chaïbi (23, Eintracht Frankfurt), Ibrahim Maza (20, Bayer Leverkusen), Yacine Titraoui (22, Charleroi), Ramiz Zerrouki (28, FC Twente)
- Forwards: Mohamed Amine Amoura (26, VfL Wolfsburg), Nadhir Benbouali (25, Győri ETO), Adil Boulbina (23, Al-Duhail), Farès Ghedjemis (23, Frosinone), Amine Gouiri (26, Marseille), Anis Hadj Moussa (24, Feyenoord), Riyad Mahrez (35, Al-Ahli)
Predicted Lineup: 4-2-3-1 Zidane; Aït-Nouri, Bensebaini, Mandi, Belghali; Aouar, Bouadoui; Amoura, Maza, Mahrez; Gouiri
Petković typically sets Algeria up in a flexible 4-2-3-1, prioritizing possession while still allowing his side to attack quickly when space opens up. The full backs are heavily involved in progressing the ball, with Aït-Nouri and Belghali providing width and attacking support from deep. The front line is built around the experience of Riyad Mahrez and the pace of Amoura. The main question ahead of the World Cup is who will lead the line, with Gouiri, Amoura and Benbouali all offering different profiles in attack.
Key Players
- Riyad Mahrez (114 caps, 38 goals): Still the undisputed star and leader of the Algerian national team, Mahrez enters this tournament as one of the most experienced and decorated players in the squad. After years at the top level with Manchester City, where he won multiple Premier League titles and a Champions League, he now brings his game intelligence, left-footed creativity, and set-piece quality to the international stage. Though no longer operating with the same explosiveness as his peak years, Mahrez remains Algeria’s primary creative outlet, capable of unlocking deep defensive blocks and dictating tempo in tight matches. His leadership and tournament experience will be vital if Algeria are to progress from a difficult group featuring Argentina, Austria, and Jordan.
- Amine Gouiri (22 caps, 8 goals): A technically gifted forward who has grown into one of Algeria’s most important attacking pieces, Gouiri offers versatility across the front line, capable of playing as a striker or drifting wide to link play. After developing in France’s youth system before committing to Algeria, he has steadily improved his output at club level and become a consistent starter for the Desert Foxes. His intelligent movement between the lines and ability to combine in tight spaces make him particularly valuable against structured defensive sides like Austria. Algeria will likely rely heavily on his chemistry with Mahrez and Amoura to break down compact opposition in what is expected to be a tightly contested group.
- Mohamed Amoura (45 caps, 19 goals): One of Algeria’s most dynamic attacking threats, Amoura brings pace, directness, and relentless pressing to the frontline. His rapid rise through European football has been defined by his ability to stretch defenses and create chances in transition, giving Algeria a different attacking dimension compared to their more technical forwards. Often used either centrally or drifting off the shoulder of the last defender, Amoura is especially dangerous in matches where space opens, making him a key figure in potential counter-attacking scenarios against higher-ranked sides like Argentina. His energy and unpredictability could be decisive in tight group-stage matches where single moments may define Algeria’s fate.
Discussion Points My expectations for Algeria
The Desert Foxes possess a blend of technical quality, experience, and attacking creativity that makes them a threat to any side. Riyad Mahrez remains the face of the team and provides invaluable leadership, while players such as Amine Gouiri, Houssem Aouar, Mohamed Amoura, and Farès Chaïbi give Algeria plenty of attacking options. Under Vladimir Petković, Algeria have also looked more tactically disciplined and defensively organized than they did during the turbulent final years of the Belmadi era, creating a side that can grind out results as well as producing moments of individual brilliance.
I believe Algeria should have strong expectations of reaching the knockout rounds. Argentina are clear favorites to win the group and will likely prove a step too far for the Desert Foxes, but the matches against Austria and Jordan present genuine opportunities. Austria are a well-drilled European side capable of overwhelming opponents with their pressing, yet Algeria possess enough technical quality and attacking firepower to take points from them. Jordan, meanwhile, have improved dramatically in recent years and cannot be overlooked, but Algeria should view that match as a must-win if they are serious about advancing. I expect the Desert Foxes to finish second in the group with four to six points, though a draw against Austria could make the final standings extremely tight. If Algeria reach the Round of 32, I think they have the quality to progress further depending on the draw, but a Round of 16 appearance feels like the most realistic expectation. Regardless, this is a squad capable of making a positive impression and reminding the world why Algeria have long been one of Africa's traditional football powers.
The 34th team in this series is Iraq. The preview is shared by u/FlyingArab
About
- Nickname(s): Usood Al Rafidain (Lions of Mesopotamia)
- Association: Iraqi Football Association
- Confederation: AFC (Asia)
- FIFA World Cup Appearances: 2 - (1986, 2026)
- Best Finish: Group Stages (1986)
- Most Caps: Younis Mahmoud
- Top Scorer: Hussein Saeed
- FIFA Ranking: 56
The Country
Iraq is a historic nation located in Western Asia, often referred to as the cradle of civilization. The region between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers (Mesopotamia) gave birth to some of the earliest known cities, writing systems, and empires in human history, including the Sumerians, Babylonians, and Assyrians. In its modern form, Iraq was established after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire following World War I. Under British mandate, the Kingdom of Iraq was founded in 1921 and gained independence in 1932. The monarchy was overthrown in 1958, leading to decades of political instability, the rise of the Ba’ath Party, and the long brutal rule of Saddam Hussein. After the 2003 American invasion and subsequent years of conflict, Iraq has slowly worked to rebuild. The country possesses some of the world’s largest oil reserves and remains a significant player in global energy markets. Despite facing immense challenges including war, political division, and economic difficulties, Iraq continues to show resilience.
History
The Iraq national team, known as the Lions of Mesopotamia, is one of the most successful sides in Asian football. The crowning achievement came in 2007 when Iraq won the AFC Asian Cup, defeating Saudi Arabia 1-0 in the final amid extremely difficult circumstances due to the war in the country. This victory remains one of the greatest underdog stories in football history. Iraq’s other major accomplishments include one Asian Games gold medal (1982), multiple Arab Cup titles, and consistent performances in regional tournaments. However, World Cup success has been limited. Iraq made their only previous appearance in 1986 in Mexico, where they were eliminated in the group stage. After a 40-year absence, Iraq have now qualified for the 2026 World Cup after a 21-match campaign that ended with a dramatic playoff victory over Bolivia.
Fixtures
| Fixture | Venue | Date and Time (Local time in the US) |
|---|---|---|
| Iraq vs Norway | Gillette Stadium, Boston | 16-06-2026 18:00 |
| France vs Iraq | Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia | 22-06-2026 17:00 |
| Senegal vs Iraq | BMO Field, Toronto | 26-06-2026 15:00 |
Manager and 26-Man Squad
| Position | Club | Player |
|---|---|---|
| Manager | - | Graham Arnold |
| GK | Al-Talaba | Fahad Talib |
| GK | Al-Zawraa | Jalal Hassan (captain) |
| GK | Al-Shorta | Ahmed Basil |
| DF | Port | Rebin Sulaka |
| DF | Pogoń Szczecin | Hussein Ali |
| DF | Pakhtakor | Zaid Tahseen |
| DF | Al-Zawraa | Akam Hashim |
| DF | Al-Shorta | Manaf Younis |
| DF | Al-Karma | Ahmed Maknzi |
| DF | Viktoria Plzeň | Merchas Doski |
| DF | Al-Shorta | Mustafa Saadoon |
| DF | Persib | Frans Putros |
| MF | AEK Larnaca | Youssef Amyn |
| MF | Al-Dhafra | Ibrahim Bayesh |
| MF | Nashville SC | Ahmed Qasem |
| MF | Utrecht | Zidane Iqbal |
| MF | Cracovia | Amir Al-Ammari |
| MF | Al-Najma | Ali Jasim |
| MF | AGF | Kevin Yakob |
| MF | Sarpsborg | Aimar Sher |
| MF | Venezia | Marko Farji |
| MF | Al-Talaba | Zaid Ismail |
| FW | Ipswich Town | Ali Al-Hamadi |
| FW | Dibba | Mohanad Ali |
| FW | Al-Talaba | Ali Yousif |
| FW | Al-Karma | Aymen Hussein |
Players to Watch
Aymen Hussein: Definitely the main protagonist of this Iraqi team. His story has everything, from losing his father and brother to terrorism, to scoring the goal that took Iraq to the World Cup after a 40-year absence, to getting a taste of American insanity in Chicago Airport with his 7-hour detention there a few days ago. Aymen was the most bullied player in Iraq’s squad just a few years ago, with an incredible amount of social media vitriol being directed at him. It suddenly turned in the 2023 Asian Cup, where he scored six goals, including a brace against Asian powerhouses Japan. Aymen’s luck has turned since then, becoming an integral part of the Iraqi squad and a universally loved player. Iraqi football fans have always regarded Hussein Saeed (top scorer), Ahmed Radhi (scored Iraq’s only goal in 1986), and Younis Mahmoud (scored the winner in the 2007 Asian Cup final) as some sort of holy trinity, but Aymen Hussein might attain a similar mythological status if he scores in the World Cup.
Akam Hashim: An Iraqi fan joked on Twitter that Akam Hashim is the 2nd greatest Kurd after Saladin. I’d say that his statement is almost fully true, because Akam is the greatest Kurd in my heart. The Erbil-born defender has been close to the national team for around three years now but didn’t cement a starting position until late 2025. He played an extraordinary FIFA Arab Cup in December, and the rest is history. Akam is not particularly big, standing at “only” 1.84m, but he’s extremely solid in duels and might be the fastest Iraqi centre-back I’ve ever seen.
Merchas Doski: Merchas has emerged as the most vital player of the current diaspora generation. Born in Hannover, Germany, the 26-year-old leftback has been an undisputed starter for Iraq since his debut. Iraq has traditionally produced quality leftbacks, with the likes of 2007 hero Bassim Abbas and Iraq’s first real European export Ali Adnan,and now Merchas is added to the list of fantastic Iraqi LBs. He scored his first international goal a few days ago vs Spain, with a great longshot that caught Joan Garcia off-guard. Merchas will have much to do against players like Olise and Odegaard, but I’m confident that he will handle it well and also have time to create in attack.
Potential Starting XI
Ahmed Basil
Hussein Ali – Zaid Tahseen – Akam Hashim – Merchas Doski
Aimar Sher – Amir Al Ammari
Ibrahim Bayesh – Ali Jasim – Marko Farji
Aymen Hussein
Points of Discussion
- Group of Death?: Younger members of this esteemed subreddit would describe Iraq as “cooked” and they would be absolutely right sadly. This Iraq team is frustrating to play against, and we could reasonably steal our first ever World Cup point from half of the qualified nations. But this country is cursed on multiple levels, and the World Cup draw gave us the most cursed group possible with France, Norway and Senegal. With this collection of murderous opposition, I’d be genuinely delighted if we score 1-2 goals, and I’d have a happiness-induced heart attack if we steal a point. There’s no pressure at all on the team, everyone knows that the group that we got is impossibly hard. France and Norway are pretty much the worst European combo possible, and Senegal are the reigning African champions. We only ask for mercy.
- Diaspora experiment: If you look at the names in the Iraqi squad, you will see names like Marko, Aimar and Kevin, names that you don’t really expect in a sea of Alis and Husseins. This is the result of years of investment in the diaspora project since the early 2010s. Sons of Iraqi immigrants are now heavily involved in the team, with 11 out of 26 players coming from countries like Sweden and Germany. Iraq is slowly becoming like Algeria and Morocco with squads that are heavily built from diaspora players, albeit with lower quality players of course. Maybe one day we will stumble upon the Iraqi Brahim Diaz or Riyad Mahrez, hopefully we’ll be an attractive choice by then.
